Growth Potential: Can You Still Grow Taller After Age 15?

Q: Growth Potential: Can You Still Grow Taller After Age 15?

Hello, sister： 1. <br>Whether further growth will occur depends on whether the X-ray growth plates have fused. <br>If they have not fused and the individual is 15 years old, there may still be a chance for growth, but it varies from person to person. <br>2. <br>For growth hormone

Height

I have had my bone age assessed twice, and it was determined to be 15 years old.
According to medical standards, girls typically stop growing taller around the ages of 14 to 15.
However, my doctor mentioned that my bones could continue to grow until I reach 18 years old.
Is this true? I understand that my growth plates have not fused yet, but I haven't seen any height increase.
I have consulted two different doctors and had blood tests done twice.
My thyroid levels are normal, but my hormone and growth hormone levels are below the standard.
When I saw a third doctor, she said that the way I had my blood drawn was incorrect.
The previous doctor advised me to climb stairs for 15 minutes before the blood test, but this new doctor said that this method would yield inaccurate results and that everyone would show lower than standard levels.
Is this true? Why do different doctors have varying opinions? Which one is correct? Is there still a chance for me to grow taller? My father is 175 cm and my mother is 152 cm, while I am only 146.3 cm, which is below the standard height.
Before entering junior high, I was very thin and had little appetite, weighing less than 40 kg.
Why did I start gaining weight and eating more after entering junior high (now I weigh 45 kg) but have grown very little in height? Some doctors say that my growth is slower, and most of my relatives and friends believe that I am unlikely to grow taller.
Is this true? Please answer these three questions.
Thank you!

meimei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/07/25

Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine

Hello, sister: 1.
Whether further growth will occur depends on whether the X-ray growth plates have fused.
If they have not fused and the individual is 15 years old, there may still be a chance for growth, but it varies from person to person.
2.
For growth hormone testing, it is best to conduct a hypoglycemic response test and specific stimulation tests for more accurate results.
Since our hospital does not offer these tests, I recommend visiting the endocrinology department or pediatric endocrinology department at National Taiwan University Hospital, Veterans General Hospital, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, or Mackay Memorial Hospital.
3.
After the first year of junior high, individuals may eat more, gain weight, and not grow taller.
It is advisable to engage in more physical activity and get plenty of sunlight, which can help with weight control and promote growth.

Reply Date: 2001/07/25

More Info

Understanding growth potential during adolescence is a complex topic that involves various factors, including genetics, nutrition, hormonal balance, and the status of growth plates in the bones. Based on your situation, let's break down your questions and concerns regarding your growth potential after age 15.

Growth Potential After Age 15
1. Can You Still Grow Taller After Age 15?
Generally, most girls experience their peak growth spurt during puberty, which typically occurs between ages 10 and 14. By the time a girl reaches 15, she may have already experienced most of her growth. However, it is important to note that growth can continue until the growth plates in the bones close, which can happen as late as 16 to 18 years of age for some individuals. Since you mentioned that your growth plates have not yet fused, there is still a possibility for you to grow taller, albeit the rate of growth may be slower.

2. Bone Age and Growth Plates:
You mentioned that your bone age is assessed to be around 15 years, which indicates that your skeletal maturity is in line with your chronological age. However, if your doctors have indicated that your bones may continue to grow until you are 18, this suggests that your growth plates are still open. The closure of growth plates is a critical factor in determining whether further height increase is possible. If your growth plates are still open, you may have the potential to grow taller, but this will depend on various factors, including hormonal levels and overall health.

3. Hormonal Levels and Growth:
You noted that your hormone levels, including growth hormone, were below the standard range. Hormones play a significant role in growth and development. If your growth hormone levels are indeed low, this could impact your growth potential. However, it is essential to ensure that the tests are conducted correctly. The advice from your doctor about the blood test procedure is crucial; physical activity before a blood draw can indeed affect hormone levels temporarily. Therefore, it is vital to follow the correct protocols for testing to get accurate results.

Variability in Medical Opinions
It is not uncommon to receive different opinions from various healthcare providers. This can be due to differences in their experiences, interpretations of test results, or approaches to treatment. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers and seek clarification on any discrepancies. If you feel uncertain about the advice given, consider seeking a second opinion from a specialist, such as an endocrinologist, who focuses on hormonal issues and growth disorders.

Nutrition and Weight Changes
You mentioned a significant change in your appetite and weight since entering junior high school. This is not unusual, as many adolescents experience fluctuations in appetite and weight during puberty. However, maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is crucial for supporting growth. Ensure you are consuming adequate amounts of protein, calcium, vitamin D, and other vital nutrients that contribute to bone health and overall growth.

Conclusion
In summary, while your growth potential may still exist due to open growth plates, several factors, including hormonal levels and nutrition, play a significant role in determining your final height. It is essential to continue monitoring your health with the guidance of healthcare professionals. If you have concerns about your growth or hormonal levels, consider discussing potential evaluations or treatments with an endocrinologist. Remember, genetics also plays a crucial role in determining height, so while you may not reach the height of your father, it is possible to achieve a height that is satisfactory for you. Stay positive, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and keep an open line of communication with your healthcare team.

Similar Q&A

Can I Still Grow Taller at 15? Tips for Height Increase

Hello, I am currently 15 years old and 175 cm tall. Can I still grow taller? How can I grow taller?

Dr. Xie Huimin reply Nutrition
Height has its limitations, and once growth and development are complete, the potential for further height increase may be minimal. However, engaging in physical activities (such as basketball, long jump, rope skipping, and swimming) and ensuring adequate nutrition (sufficient ca...

Can I Still Grow Taller at 15? Understanding Growth Plates and Height Potential

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if I can still grow taller at the age of 15 in my first year of high school. My current height is 163 cm, and I want to reach 170 cm or taller. Is there still a chance for me to grow, or should I see an orthopedic specialist to check my growth p...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
At the age of 15, there is still a possibility for growth in height. Generally, males tend to stop growing around the ages of 15 to 16. The height of children is most closely related to the heights of their parents. It is advisable to consult a doctor for further evaluation.

Can a 15-Year-Old Still Grow Taller? Tips for Maximizing Height Potential

I will turn 16 years old on October 17th this year. My current height is 158.5 cm. I have developed pubic hair and underarm hair, but I haven't grown facial hair yet. My voice has changed, but my Adam's apple hasn't protruded. From the summer before entering middle...

Dr. Li Wenhong reply Orthopedics
Hello: You still have the opportunity to grow taller, but it will not be a rapid increase, and it is impossible to predict your final height. Balanced nutrition and adequate sleep are the most important factors. Keep it up! Orthopedics, Changhua Hospital, Dr. Li Wen-Hong.

Can I Still Grow Taller at 15? Height Growth Tips for Teens

At the age of 15 (international age) or 16 (Taiwanese age), it is still possible for you to grow taller, as many girls continue to grow until their late teens. Generally, girls tend to stop growing around the ages of 16 to 18, but this can vary based on individual factors such as...

Dr. Su Yiren reply Orthopedics
Hello, Xiaoting! It is possible for you to grow taller. I grew an additional 2 centimeters between the ages of 16 and 18. The key is to engage in more physical activity and limit video gaming and internet usage. I hope this information is helpful to you. If you have any questions...